Following in the footsteps of the likes of Apple and Sony, Microsoft has announced via a press release that it is going to launch a chain of Microsoft-owned and operated retail stores. From the press release it becomes clear that the retail stores are not so much about making huge profits, but more about learning from customers what they want and to spread the Microsoft brand.

I admit I think that this doesn't sound like an amazing idea. You can already go buy MS stuff in Staples if you really want to, and most of the people I know just place their orders online or over the phone. However, it might be a good marketing idea, if executed properly.

But yeah, the people that bash businesses for taking risks tend to be the ones in their "secure" jobs, working for a company that was started by a guy who took a very similar risk. Most businesses fail. A few go on to make millions. I can guarantee you won't make millions if all you do is work for $40k/yr for someone else and spend all your income on consumer products.